Living and studying in London

Photo credits: Abhushan Gautam.

City, University of London

City University of London has a long tradition of academic excellence, dating back to the foundation in 1894, and is ranked in the top 20 UK universities in the Guardian University Guide. The university attracts nearly 19,000 students from more than 150 countries as well as staff from over 50 countries. For many graduates, time spent at City laid the groundwork for leadership, innovation and excellence that have changed the world we live in. Among famous alumni you can find Mahatma Ghandi, leader of the Indian independence movement; Margaret Thatcher, conservative Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990; and Tony Blair, labour Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007. 

The university is located in Islington, one of the liveliest of London's "villages", offering a vibrant student life. The shops, bars, restaurants, cinemas, music and comedy clubs combine to make this one of the most exciting places in London to be.

The Department of Journalism at City, University London is ranked first for teaching journalism in the UK. It has been offering postgraduate courses in journalism since 1976. Its record on getting graduates into the best jobs in journalism and broadcasting is exemplary, and the industry focus is intense.

The thousands of graduates from City's Journalism Postgraduate Programmes form one of the strongest and most influential alumni networks in media, both in the UK and internationally. The list of organisations City Journalism graduates end up working for is long. To name few: BBC, CNN, Al Jazeera, Euronews, German DW, Reuters, AP, AFP, the Guardian, the Financial Times, Bloomberg, The Times and the Sunday Times, the Guardian, the Observer, UK Channel 4, ITV, the Economist, Politico, Forbes Europe, in addition to many other news sites.

City’s location puts it right alongside the industry it serves, and the courses offered here make full use of those unrivalled contacts and resources. You will learn from top academics and practitioners, and you will practise your craft in outstanding newsrooms that are regularly updated to meet industry requirement including the like of BBC and ITN.

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London City

While the university requires focus from students, London as a city also demands attention. Students that arrive with an assertive independence will make the city work for them: although you may be a post-graduate student, your first experience will be as an everyday Londoner trying to navigate the underground, the neighbourhoods, the markets, the nightlife, the history and without doubt, the charm of the city. And if trying to find spare time in a city like London seems to be an almost impossible task, don't worry - it is actually a sign that you are taking the best advantage of it.

From leading Premier League football teams to nightclubs and from cityscapes to green spaces, London is a city for everyone. London is also ranked the best city in the world for university students.

City's campus is in the heart of London and within easy reach of several central Underground stations. It's minutes away from London's world-famous financial district, and the headquarters of global corporations, law firms, major arts complexes and media centres.

One of the most important factors to keep enthusiasm flowing throughout the entire course in London is to find a suitable housing. Location, price and comfort may be difficult to come together, but the effort really matters for a nice experience ahead. Living in a large city can be expensive, but regardless of your budget, you will be able to enjoy much of what London has to offer. Not only is there a ton of free stuff to do, but there are loads of cheap places to eat, bars and cafes too, so going out doesn't have to be expensive, and many retailers offer student discounts.

Take a look at our Mundusian Guide to living, studying and working in London for insight from our students, alumni and staff based in the city. The guide covers  topics like where to eat, shop and socialise in London. We also provide helpful information about housing, working, living costs, visa, banks and health insurance.

For information about what to do and see, and how to live in London, please also check Visit London.